Effects of Reduced Cerebral Blood Flow on Neuronal Activity and Anxiety in a longitudinal mouse model of UCCAO

Motivation: The longitudinal effects of blood flow changes in carotid artery occlusion are unclear. Goal(s): To evaluate the cerebral blood flow and behavior changes after ischemic brain injury in a mice model. Approach: Cerebral blood flow was investigated longitudinally using ASL in mice with unilateral common carotid artery occlusion (UCCAO). Immunohistochemistry and behavioral experiments were conducted to elucidate reperfusion mechanisms after ischemia. Results: In UCCAO mice, blood flow on the ipsilateral side recovered by day 21, while contralateral blood supply recovered within 3 days. C-FOS staining at 3 days post-UCCAO indicated S1BF neuron activation, and behavioral assessments revealed signs of anxiety. Impact: Longitudinal blood flow measurements using ASL offer a reliable approach to investigating the mechanisms underlying blood flow recovery following carotid artery occlusion.